Recent concerns regarding Joel Embiid‘s knee paint a bleak outlook for the Philadelphia 76ers, with the star possibly missing the start of training camp. In a recent report, NBA insider Brett Siegel shed more light on this when he wrote:
“Embiid has struggled getting back on the court this offseason, and there is a growing concern that he will not be ready for the start of training camp, league sources told ClutchPoints.”
“Although word from Philadelphia surrounding the star center continues to be optimistic, and they expect him to return to MVP form, everyone else around the league does not share the same belief… The common word associated with Embiid and his health this offseason is that things are “bad.”
Embiid’s recurring knee injuries have kept him sidelined for a significant amount of time. Given that the 76ers organization offered the big man a contract extension last season, it appears that they find themselves in a tough spot. Siegel wrote:
“Several rival teams in the Eastern Conference who spoke with ClutchPoints a couple of weeks ago at NBA Summer League confirmed mixed signals coming from the Sixers regarding Embiid’s knee health, with one executive stating that the 76ers are regretting their decision to extend the big man’s contract in 2024.”
Embiid is currently in the third year of his four-year, $213,280,928 contract. But considering that he signed a three-year extension last year, his contract will run through the 2027-28 season, with a player option for the 2028-29 season.
As things stand, the 31-year-old is expected to have a significant impact on Philadelphia’s salary cap for the foreseeable future. His $55.2 million cap hit this upcoming season has also had an impact on their roster construction approach this offseason.
Given his talent and value to the team, Embiid’s situation is especially unfortunate. When available, he is undoubtedly one of the best players in the league. After winning the MVP award for the 2022-23 season, the 76ers star has struggled to stay on the floor, progressively missing more time due to injury.
Last season, Embiid appeared in only 19 games. During this time, he put up an impressive average of 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, while shooting 44.4% from the field.
Given the nature of his injuries and prolonged recovery time, it’s clear the situation has taken a toll on Embiid. With some insiders even speculating that this could mark the end of his career, the 76ers organization will find itself in a difficult position.
Philadelphia is likely to see its star duo unavailable for the start of training camp, with Paul George also being re-evaluated after undergoing surgery. Should the concerns materialize, there is a greater possibility that both stars could be sidelined to start the season.
This puts the 76ers in a weakened position. Even with a talented young core, Philadelphia won’t have the necessary firepower to go up against the other teams in the East. Although Tyrese Maxey has proven himself, the lack of star power, as well as the limited roster depth, may be too burdensome.
While there is some hope for Embiid to make a comeback during the regular season, the time it will take him to return to game condition may significantly delay his return. Amid retirement speculation as well, the 76ers may have to revisit their long-term roster strategy.
